Gangasagar Mela Attracts Millions for Makar Sankranti Holy Dip
Kolkata witnessed a massive influx of devotees at the Gangasagar Mela. From January 1 until the evening of January 13, approximately 60 lakh people took the sacred dip in the holy waters. Authorities anticipated several lakhs more pilgrims over the next two days for the auspicious occasion of Makar Sankranti.
Elaborate Pilgrimage Arrangements by the State
The state government made extensive preparations for this annual pilgrimage, one of the largest in eastern India. To manage the constant stream of devotees, officials deployed around 2,500 buses, 13 barges, 45 vessels, and 100 wooden launches. These transports ferried pilgrims to and from the Gangasagar Mela site efficiently.
Significant Economic Boost from the Mela
The Sagar Mela serves as a major economic driver for the region. Hotels, small traders, transport operators, and daily-wage workers experience a substantial rise in income during this period. Hotels, lodges, and guesthouses across key transit points reported high occupancy rates.
Eateries along important routes and near transit hubs like Sealdah, Howrah, and Babughat are doing brisk business. Ashok Singh, a vendor with a temporary stall near the Maidan, shared his experience. He said, "Lakhs are staying here in makeshift arrangements. I am selling mufflers and caps, and sales are very good this year." Other traders selling food, utensils, and religious items echoed similar sentiments about strong sales.
Robust Surveillance and Crowd Management Systems
At Gangasagar, the administration implemented a comprehensive surveillance system. They used 20 drones for aerial monitoring in addition to 1,200 CCTVs that kept a close watch across the mela area. Barricades covered a 54-kilometer stretch, with both metal and temporary arrangements in place to regulate crowd movement effectively.
Enhanced Disaster Preparedness Measures
For disaster preparedness, authorities deployed 2,500 civil defence volunteers. Teams from the Indian Navy, State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) were also on standby. After a fire incident gutted some tents a few days ago, fire safety received special attention. Officials stationed 18 fire stations and 50 fire tenders at strategic locations to ensure prompt response.
Timing of the Makar Snan Ritual
The Makar Snan, the holy bath ritual, started at 1:19 PM on Wednesday. It concluded at 1:19 PM on Thursday, marking the peak of the pilgrimage activities. This timing aligned with the astrological significance of Makar Sankranti, drawing devotees from various parts of the country.
